HEALTH NEWS

National Save Your Vision Month

Vision is a complex sense composed of acuity (sharpness of detail), sense of color, ability to see contrasts, and the ability to determine the depth of objects in a space. With the normal aging process, an individual’s degree of visual acuity may decline over time. Certain eye diseases and conditions occur with higher incidence in some population groups. Race, gender, family history, or age may place a person at higher risk for vision-impairing or threatening disorders.

The American Optometric Association recommends visiting the optometrist on the following schedule, and more often, if specific problems or risk factors exist.

AGE GROUP FREQUENCY
6 months - 18 years: At 6 months, 3 years old, before starting school, then every 2 years.
18 years - 40 years: Every 2 - 3 years
41 years - 60 years: Every 2 years
60 years & older: Annually

Conditions that Affect the Eyes

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness, is a disease where the center of one’s vision fades away, which results in only peripheral vision. Those over 50 should schedule an eye examination at least every two years with the optometrist. Good News: Certain deep green and dark yellow or orange fruits and vegetables may help prevent or slow the progression of AMD.

Cataracts are caused by chemical changes in the eye’s lens that clouds all or part of the normally clear lens in the eye. One might have blurred or hazy vision, an appearance of spots in front of the eyes, increased sensitivity to glare, or a “film” over the eyes. Smoking and overexposure to sunlight can intensify the problem. Good News: More than 98% of people who have cataracts removed have improved vision.

Diabetic Retinopathy is a disorder that can weaken and cause changes in the small blood vessels that nourish the retina. There might be blurred vision or no symptoms at all. As the illness progresses, cloudiness of vision, blind spots, or floaters can be seen. Optometrists should be informed of a diabetic condition, and eye examinations should be scheduled at appropriate intervals to detect changes in the retina or optic nerve. Good News: Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent vision loss in more than 90% of patients.

Glaucoma is the result of a build-up of pressure in the eye, resulting in damage to the nerve fibers, optic nerve, and blood vessels in the eye. Sometimes there are no symptoms; however, often there is blurred vision, loss of side vision, seeing colored rings around lights, and pain or redness in the eyes. Those over 40 or with a family history of glaucoma should schedule an eye exam annually. Good News: If detected early, glaucoma can be controlled with prescription medication.

Resources:
U.S. Health and Human Services Department, www.hhs.gov
Mayo Clinic, www.MayoClinic.com
American Optometric Association, www.aoa.org
Old Dominion Eye Back, www.odeb.org